How does the endocrine system regulate bodily functions. What are the major glands and hormones in the human body. How do hormonal imbalances affect health. What recent developments have occurred in endocrinology research.

The Fundamentals of the Endocrine System

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and hormones that regulate numerous bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, controlling growth and development, metabolism, reproduction, and stress responses. Understanding this intricate system is essential for comprehending human physiology and addressing various health issues.

What are the primary components of the endocrine system?

The endocrine system consists of several key components:

• Glands: Specialized organs that produce and secrete hormones
• Hormones: Chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream
• Target cells: Specific cells that respond to particular hormones
• Receptors: Proteins on target cells that bind to hormones

These components work together to maintain balance and regulate various physiological processes throughout the body.

Major Endocrine Glands and Their Functions

The human body contains several endocrine glands, each responsible for producing specific hormones that regulate different aspects of our physiology. Understanding these glands and their functions is crucial for comprehending the overall workings of the endocrine system.

What are the primary endocrine glands in the human body?

The major endocrine glands include:

1. Pituitary gland: Often called the “master gland,” it produces hormones that regulate other endocrine glands
2. Thyroid gland: Produces thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism
3. Parathyroid glands: Control calcium levels in the blood and bones
4. Adrenal glands: Produce stress hormones and regulate blood pressure
5. Pancreas: Secretes insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels
6. Ovaries (in females): Produce estrogen and progesterone
7. Testes (in males): Produce testosterone

Each of these glands plays a unique role in maintaining bodily functions and overall health.

Hormones: The Chemical Messengers of the Body

Hormones are the primary means of communication within the endocrine system. These chemical messengers are produced by endocrine glands and travel through the bloodstream to target specific cells or organs, triggering various physiological responses.

How do hormones function in the body?

Hormones work through a complex process:

• Production: Endocrine glands synthesize hormones
• Secretion: Hormones are released into the bloodstream
• Transport: The circulatory system carries hormones to target cells
• Binding: Hormones attach to specific receptors on target cells
• Response: Target cells react to the hormone’s signal, producing various effects

This intricate system allows for precise regulation of bodily functions, from metabolism to growth and reproduction.

The Interplay Between the Endocrine and Other Body Systems

The endocrine system does not function in isolation; it interacts closely with other body systems to maintain overall health and homeostasis. Understanding these interactions is crucial for comprehending the complex nature of human physiology.

How does the endocrine system interact with other body systems?

The endocrine system has significant interactions with:

• Nervous system: Both systems work together to regulate bodily functions
• Immune system: Hormones influence immune responses and inflammation
• Cardiovascular system: Hormones affect heart rate and blood pressure
• Digestive system: Hormones regulate appetite, digestion, and nutrient absorption
• Reproductive system: Hormones control sexual development and reproduction

These interactions highlight the interconnected nature of the human body and the importance of maintaining hormonal balance for overall health.

Common Endocrine Disorders and Their Impact on Health

Endocrine disorders occur when glands produce too much or too little of a hormone, leading to various health issues. These disorders can affect multiple aspects of a person’s life, from physical health to emotional well-being.

What are some common endocrine disorders?

Some frequently encountered endocrine disorders include:

• Diabetes mellitus: Impaired insulin production or function
• Thyroid disorders: Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Adrenal insufficiency: Inadequate production of adrenal hormones
• Cushing’s syndrome: Excess cortisol production
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal imbalance affecting female reproductive health
• Growth hormone deficiency: Inadequate production of growth hormone

These disorders can have significant impacts on an individual’s quality of life and require proper diagnosis and management.

Advancements in Endocrinology Research

The field of endocrinology is constantly evolving, with new discoveries and advancements enhancing our understanding of the endocrine system and improving treatment options for various disorders. Recent research has shed light on novel aspects of hormone function and regulation.

What are some recent developments in endocrinology research?

Recent advancements in endocrinology include:

• Improved understanding of hormone receptor mechanisms
• Development of more targeted and effective hormone therapies
• Discoveries related to the gut-brain axis and its hormonal influences
• Advancements in hormone replacement therapies
• Insights into the role of hormones in aging and longevity

These developments are paving the way for more personalized and effective treatments for endocrine disorders.

The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle in Endocrine Health

Maintaining a healthy endocrine system is not solely dependent on medical interventions. Nutrition and lifestyle factors play a significant role in hormone balance and overall endocrine health. Understanding these influences can empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their hormonal well-being.

How do diet and lifestyle affect endocrine health?

Several factors can impact endocrine health:

• Balanced diet: Proper nutrition supports hormone production and function
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can help regulate hormone levels
• Stress management: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance
• Adequate sleep: Sleep patterns influence hormone production and regulation
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals can affect endocrine function

By addressing these factors, individuals can support their endocrine health and potentially prevent or manage hormonal imbalances.

Emerging Therapies and Future Directions in Endocrinology

The field of endocrinology is rapidly advancing, with new therapies and treatment approaches on the horizon. These emerging options hold promise for more effective management of endocrine disorders and improved patient outcomes.

What are some promising new therapies in endocrinology?

Emerging therapies and areas of research include:

• Gene therapy for endocrine disorders
• Stem cell-based treatments for diabetes and other conditions
• Advanced hormone delivery systems
• Precision medicine approaches for personalized endocrine care
• Artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment planning

These advancements offer hope for more targeted and effective treatments in the future, potentially revolutionizing the field of endocrinology.

The endocrine system’s complexity and far-reaching effects on human health make it a fascinating area of study. From the intricate interactions between glands and hormones to the impact of lifestyle factors on hormonal balance, understanding this system is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. As research continues to uncover new insights and treatment possibilities, the field of endocrinology remains at the forefront of medical advancement, offering hope for improved management of hormonal disorders and enhanced quality of life for patients worldwide.

The ongoing exploration of the endocrine system’s intricacies continues to yield valuable insights into human physiology and pathology. Recent studies have shed light on the role of hormones in various aspects of health, from metabolism and growth to cognitive function and emotional well-being. This expanding knowledge base not only enhances our understanding of the body’s regulatory mechanisms but also opens up new avenues for therapeutic interventions.

One area of particular interest is the interplay between the endocrine system and the immune system. Researchers have discovered that hormones play a crucial role in modulating immune responses, influencing everything from inflammation to autoimmune disorders. This knowledge has led to new approaches in treating conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, where hormonal therapies are being explored as potential treatment options.

Another exciting development in endocrinology is the growing recognition of the importance of circadian rhythms in hormone regulation. The body’s internal clock, or circadian system, has been found to have a profound impact on the production and secretion of various hormones. This understanding has implications for a wide range of health issues, from sleep disorders to metabolic syndromes, and is leading to new chronotherapeutic approaches in medicine.

The field of neuroendocrinology, which explores the interactions between the nervous system and the endocrine system, is also advancing rapidly. Researchers are uncovering the complex ways in which hormones influence brain function and vice versa. This has implications for understanding and treating mood disorders, cognitive decline, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

In the realm of reproductive endocrinology, new technologies are emerging that promise to revolutionize fertility treatments. Advanced genetic screening techniques, combined with hormonal interventions, are improving the success rates of in vitro fertilization and other assisted reproductive technologies. These advancements offer hope to millions of individuals and couples struggling with infertility.

The role of environmental factors in endocrine health is another area of growing concern and research. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in everyday products and the environment have been linked to various health issues, from developmental problems to certain cancers. This has spurred efforts to better understand these impacts and develop strategies to mitigate their effects on human health.

As our understanding of the endocrine system deepens, so too does our ability to develop more targeted and effective treatments for hormonal disorders. Personalized medicine approaches, tailored to an individual’s unique hormonal profile and genetic makeup, are becoming increasingly feasible. This promises more effective treatments with fewer side effects, improving outcomes for patients with a wide range of endocrine conditions.

The integration of technology into endocrinology is also advancing rapidly. Wearable devices that can monitor hormone levels in real-time, artificial intelligence algorithms that can predict hormonal fluctuations, and smart insulin delivery systems for diabetes management are just a few examples of how technology is transforming the field. These innovations not only improve patient care but also provide valuable data for further research and understanding of endocrine function.

Looking to the future, the field of endocrinology is poised for even more groundbreaking discoveries and advancements. From unraveling the complexities of hormone signaling pathways to developing novel therapeutic approaches, the potential for improving human health through endocrine research is vast. As we continue to unlock the secrets of this intricate system, we move closer to a future where hormonal balance can be maintained with greater precision, enhancing overall health and quality of life for people around the world.

The endocrine system’s influence extends far beyond the traditional boundaries of endocrinology. Recent research has highlighted its role in areas such as aging, cancer biology, and even behavioral sciences. Understanding how hormones influence these diverse aspects of human biology is opening up new paradigms in healthcare and scientific research.

In the field of aging research, hormones are being recognized as key players in the process of senescence. The decline in hormone production that occurs with age is now understood to contribute significantly to many age-related health issues. This has led to investigations into hormone replacement therapies as potential interventions to promote healthy aging. However, this area remains controversial, with ongoing debates about the long-term safety and efficacy of such approaches.

The intersection of endocrinology and oncology is another area of intense study. Hormones have been implicated in the development and progression of various cancers, particularly breast and prostate cancer. This understanding has led to the development of hormone therapies as effective treatments for certain types of cancer. Conversely, researchers are also exploring how cancer can disrupt normal endocrine function, leading to paraneoplastic syndromes that can have wide-ranging effects on the body.

In the realm of behavioral sciences, the influence of hormones on mood, cognition, and behavior is becoming increasingly apparent. From the effects of stress hormones on mental health to the role of sex hormones in cognitive function, endocrinology is providing new insights into the biological basis of human behavior. This research has implications for the treatment of mental health disorders, as well as our understanding of human psychology and social behavior.

The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, is another area where endocrinology plays a crucial role. Hormones produced in the gut, such as ghrelin and cholecystokinin, have been found to influence not only digestion and metabolism but also mood and cognitive function. This emerging field of research is shedding light on the complex relationships between diet, gut health, and overall well-being.

Advancements in molecular biology techniques are also revolutionizing endocrine research. CRISPR gene editing technology, for instance, is allowing scientists to study hormone function at a genetic level with unprecedented precision. This opens up possibilities for developing targeted gene therapies for endocrine disorders and provides new tools for understanding the complex regulatory networks that control hormone production and action.

The role of the endocrine system in energy metabolism and obesity is another area of ongoing research. As rates of obesity and related metabolic disorders continue to rise globally, understanding how hormones regulate appetite, energy expenditure, and fat storage is crucial. This research is leading to new approaches in the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndromes, moving beyond simple calorie-counting to more nuanced, hormone-based interventions.

Environmental endocrinology is an emerging field that examines how environmental factors, including climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, affect endocrine function in wildlife and humans. This research is crucial for understanding the broader ecological impacts of human activity and developing strategies to protect both environmental and human health.

As we look to the future, the field of endocrinology continues to expand and evolve. The integration of big data and artificial intelligence is likely to play an increasingly important role, allowing for more sophisticated analysis of hormonal patterns and their relationships to health outcomes. This could lead to more accurate predictive models for endocrine disorders and personalized treatment plans tailored to individual hormonal profiles.

The development of new drug delivery systems and biotechnologies also holds promise for improving the treatment of endocrine disorders. From long-acting hormone formulations to smart drug delivery devices, these advancements could enhance the efficacy of hormone therapies while reducing side effects and improving patient compliance.

In conclusion, the study of the endocrine system remains a dynamic and crucial area of medical science. As our understanding of this complex system grows, so too does our ability to address a wide range of health issues. From improving the management of chronic endocrine disorders to unlocking new insights into human biology, the field of endocrinology continues to push the boundaries of medical knowledge and practice. The future of endocrinology holds immense potential for improving human health and well-being, promising more effective, personalized, and holistic approaches to healthcare.

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Endocrine disruptors

Almost 20 years after the Community strategy for endocrine disruptors this issue remains a global challenge and a source of concern for many EU citizens.

Significant progress has been achieved over the past two decades and the EU is today recognised as one of the global leaders in dealing with these chemicals.

Yet, it is important to step up the EU’s efforts.

The Commission remains committed to protecting EU citizens and the environment from endocrine disruptors.

The communication Towards a comprehensive European Union framework on endocrine disruptors outlines the European Commission’s strategic approach to deal with these substances in the future and announces a number of concrete actions to be implemented across policy areas.

The European Commission is also committed to stepping up the implementation of existing policies on endocrine disruptors.

Next Steps

Fitness Check

The European Commission will take a cross-cutting look at the approach to endocrine disruptors’ assessment and management in a broad range of legislation. 

The goal is to analyse the coherence of the different approaches to this topic, identify possible gaps and synergies and assess their collective impact on human health and the environment.

General information on the Fitness check activities can be found in the following documents:

• Consultation strategy

• Roadmap of the Commission’s approach to the Fitness Check

The Fitness Check includes two public consultations, notably a public consultation (designed from a citizen’s perspective) and a stakeholder consultation (designed for stakeholders and experts):

• Public consultation (closing 09/03/2020)
• Stakeholders consultation (closing 31/01/2020)

A Factual Summary Report of the targeted stakeholder consultation can be found here.

In October 2020 the European Commission published:

• Staff Working Document on the Fitness Check on endocrine disruptors
• Executive Summary of the Staff Working Document on the Fitness Check on endocrine disruptors

The European Commission published a chemicals strategy for sustainability on 14 October 2020. It is part of the EU’s zero pollution ambition, which is a key commitment of the European Green Deal.

Annual Forum

The European Commission will organise a forum on endocrine disruptors on an annual basis.

In 2021, the third annual forum was held in the afternoons of 21 and 22 September 2021 (from 14h40 to 18h00).

In 2020, the second annual forum was held on 17-18 December. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event took place virtually via webstream.

The first annual forum was held on 8 November 2019.

• Programme
• Video

This forum brought together scientists, policy makers from different EU countries as well as interested parties for an exchange of knowledge, to identify challenges and build cooperation mechanisms.

The first meeting of the forum included:

• Presentation of the progress made on the Fitness Check and collection of feedback
• Presentation of projects funded in the framework of Horizon 2020
• Presentation of ongoing work performed at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) regarding test methods informing about substances with (possible) endocrine disruptor properties
• A stakeholder discussion on their experience with the current regulatory situation on endocrine disruptors and a discussion on in the inclusion of endocrine disruptors in the international system of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS).
• Presentation of the initiatives of some EU countries

Initiatives and activities

Actions by area

• chemicals strategy, ECHA agency and REACH regulation
• cosmetics
• environment
• pesticides and biocides
• water quality
• human biomonitoring initiative
• medical devices

Support for research

In the past decades, science on endocrine disruption has advanced significantly and progress has been reported in scientific publications by the European Commission and by EU agencies, namely the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

Advance has also been made in the context of activities co-ordinated by the European Commission. Since 1999, the European Union’s Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development have allowed to fund over 50 relevant projects for an amount of over €150 million from the EU.

These projects have improved our understanding of the endocrine mechanism of action, the identification of adverse effects on human health and wildlife from exposure to endocrine disruptors, and the development of tools for identification of endocrine disruptors and exposure assessment.

The Commission allocated further €50 million under Horizon 2020, allowing the funding of eight projects on new testing methods for endocrine disruptors.

In addition to research funded under Horizon 2020, a special effort was made in recent years to further improve the availability of test guidelines for identification of endocrine disruptors and address the testing weaknesses identified at EU and international level, under the auspices of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

• EU Research on Endocrine Disruptors

However, knowledge gaps still exist and reliable testing is necessary to identify endocrine disruptors. Therefore, it’s very important to continue supporting the establishment of a thorough research basis for effective policy-making.

Up-to-date scientific evidence

In its future framework programme for research and innovation, Horizon Europe, the Commission will continue to ensure the necessary support to research on protecting citizens and environment from exposure to harmful chemicals, including endocrine disruptors, building on the work under the current framework programme Horizon 2020.

Several proposed research areas across Horizon Europe are very relevant to endocrine disruptors, including:

• further development of hazard assessment, risk assessment and management of chemicals
• elimination of substances of concern in the production and end-of-life phases & support to the development of safe substitutes
• research on eco-innovation to prevent environmental pollution from hazardous substances and chemicals of emerging concern

International Cooperation

The European Commission actively cooperates with several institutions and countries and will step up its support to relevant international organisations, notably to:

• Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

• World Health Organisation

• Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM)

• United Nations Environment Programme

• World Trade Organisation

• United States, Canada, Japan and recently also China, among others. While having different approaches on how to deal with endocrine disruptors, all partners agree on the importance of addressing the matter as a priority

The European Commission will also explore possibilities for the inclusion of endocrine disruptors in the existing international system for classification of chemicals.

The national authorities of Belgium, Denmark, France, The Netherlands and Sweden have launched on 2 June 2020 the website Endocrine Disruptors Lists*.

*The content of this website is under the sole responsibility of the national authorities managing it and does not necessarily represent a view of the Commission

RAS Corresponding Member Natalya Mokrysheva: Endocrine diseases create a backdrop for all other diseases

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19.01.2023 18:47

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Irina Krasnopolskaya

The conversation with Natalia Mokrysheva, director of the National Center for Endocrinology, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, began with a figure: half of Russians – almost 65 million – have some kind of endocrine disease. These are diseases of the thyroid gland, and the pituitary gland, and the reproductive system, and diabetes … Endocrinology is the entire hormonal system of a person. The same thyroid gland, or simply “thyroid gland”, has long and constantly been on everyone’s lips. The pituitary gland, the most important in our life, can only dream of such attention. But the thyroid gland, which lives somewhere in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe cervical spine, which is impossible to see … Its two lobes with a total weight of 12-15 grams in an adult, and 2-3 grams in newborns. Back in the century before last, for the first time, the patient’s thyroid gland was removed for the sake of salvation. It turns out you can live without it. You can’t live without a heart, but you can without a thyroid gland. Why has the attention to it, other glands, hormones become more acute? It was considered and is considered: our main enemies are diseases of the heart, blood vessels, oncological diseases.

Natalia Mokrysheva: For each patient, we select a personalized treatment. / Sergey Kuksin / RG

Natalya Georgievna! Once upon a time, I met a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, gynecologist-endocrinologist Irina Alexandrovna Manuilova. I thought we would talk with her about how to give birth, how to take care of pregnancy. And she talked about the importance of hormones, about how important they are, about the dangers of hormonal disorders. The published note was called “Hormones – the source of life.” I confess, it was somehow unusual. There was even some distrust. It, in my opinion, is not gone now. Often, the appointment of hormonal drugs scares. In the labeling of not only medicines, but also products, they sometimes write about the presence of certain hormones in them. In our everyday life – “hormonal background”, “hormones play”, “hormonal breakdown”. Has grown thin sharply – hormones are guilty. Excess weight – oh, those hormones. Hair falls out – again hormones are to blame. Only insulin (and it is the most pancreatic hormone) is beyond condemnation. For the simple reason that without it there is no life for those suffering from diabetes. Do hormones rule us? Are they the source of life?

Natalia Mokrysheva: Absolutely.

Therefore, Natalya Georgievna, you, who was born in a family of doctors, chose endocrinology?

Natalia Mokrysheva: I am convinced that endocrine diseases create a background for all other diseases. The normal functioning of the endocrine system is a condition for a person to be healthy. Yes, you can’t live without a heart, but you can live without a thyroid gland. But under an indispensable condition: constant replenishment from the outside of it, the thyroid gland, hormones. Good work of the thyroid gland is necessary during pregnancy, that is, at the stage of laying all the systems and organs of the fetus. The formation of the brain, most importantly, is entirely under the control of thyroid hormones. But at an older age, its activity, like many endocrine glands, slowly decreases. Decreased production of hormones.

Endocrinology is the entire human hormonal system

And, unfortunately, there are areas endemic for iodine deficiency.

Natalya Mokrysheva: Yes, this is a big problem for Russia. But we hope that a law will be adopted to eliminate iodine deficiency, as in most developed countries. Let’s remember about congenital hypothyroidism, which we defeated, in fact, in Russia. Introduced screening for congenital hypothyroidism at birth of each infant. A drop of blood is taken from his heel. And in the form of a dry spot is transferred to the laboratory. If a deficiency of thyroid hormones is detected, they immediately begin to compensate for it. This prevents the development of severe complications.

And if in vitro fertilization (IVF) is performed, are these nuances taken into account?

Natalya Mokrysheva: We have a specialized department of in vitro fertilization at the National Medical Research Center of Endocrinology, one of the best in terms of its effectiveness. Patients come to us with infertility caused by various reasons. Including endocrine disorders. This may be overweight or its deficiency, pituitary tumors or some kind of hereditary endocrine diseases, etc. Each applicant is first screened by an endocrinologist. And often infertility is overcome without IVF. And if there is no way out, then they are transferred for IVF. As a neuroendocrinologist, I manage dozens of families with an initial diagnosis of infertility. Neuroendocrinology studies the work of all endocrine glands, and above all, the main one – the pituitary gland. She is just the commander, regulates the work of everything else. So the other day I had my patient, whom I began to treat almost 30 years ago, when I wrote my PhD on pituitary tumors. These tumors are different. So then a 14-year-old girl came to me. And we began to solve her problems with reproductive health. Previously, they would have told her: “Well, that’s it, you will not have children.” And we corrected everything with her, and she gave birth to three wonderful children. There are special preparations that are taken twice a week. With their help, we block the production of excess prolactin, and the body works normally. For each patient, we select a personalized treatment. After all, genetic disorders often lead to the development of unique endocrine diseases. Sometimes we determine the situation and know that the child has a high risk of developing cancer, for example, of the thyroid gland. Sometimes you even have to preventively remove the gland.

You clean up and the person is on hormones all his life? Is the quality of life normal?

Natalya Mokrysheva: With the right treatment, this is a happy and healthy life. By identifying a mutation in a particular gene, we can diagnose and observe a person. At the slightest first sign of illness, provide the right assistance. Because we know what he wants. Then he does not develop complications. And he lives well. Either on hormones or without hormones, depending on the situation.

Will conception, the birth of children shine for such people?

Natalya Mokrysheva: For the most part, yes. Moreover, in order not to inherit a mutation in some gene, there is a variant of pre-implantation diagnosis. Simply healthy genetic material is selected and a healthy baby is born. In the primary care, at the level of the FAP, the polyclinic needs screenings for major endocrine diseases.

Why are they so afraid of hormones?

Natalia Mokrysheva: I think the stereotype of early hormone use and the various side effects associated with it are partly to blame. Previously, they were used in large doses. Basically, we are talking about female sex hormones: menopause treatment or replacement therapy. In addition to these hormones, there are a huge number of others: the thyroid gland, for example. Now, if a person has little thyroid hormones and if he does not take hormones, he will become fat, swollen. His heart rhythm will be disturbed, he will be lethargic, weak, asthenic. Give him a hormone and his symptoms will go away. He will be alive and well and feel great. Lots of hormones. And they keep opening. A new hormone has recently been discovered. He doesn’t have a name yet. It is not yet known how he manifests himself.

We live in a very difficult time. Sometimes there is a wave of stress. Can hormones help? Since they are the source of life?

Natalya Mokrysheva: Hormone deficiency can lead to depression and poor health. And this condition must be treated with hormones. But if a person does not have a hormonal imbalance, and he has depression, he must be treated by other means.

How often should I check my endocrine system?

Natalia Mokrysheva: Once a year. It is desirable at the endocrinologist. Unfortunately, there is indeed a problem with the availability of endocrinologists. The shortage of adult endocrinologists is more than 20%, and for children – even more. Ideally, every year each person should pass, I believe, at least four endocrine indicators. Which? First: check your blood sugar. Second: calcium. If the indicators are higher or lower than normal, then the patient is immediately sent to the endocrinologist, a wider examination is done. If there is not enough calcium and vitamin D in the body, then the risk of osteoporosis is high. A person can stumble, fall, get a fracture. We did research a few years ago: up to 12% of the population can be deficient in calcium. Low calcium is not only a problem for bones. This is bad for blood vessels, kidneys. Excess calcium predisposes to the development of kidney stones, kidney failure and even arterial hypertension. It is necessary to check the level of thyroid hormones every year. If there are a lot of hormones, this may be the reason that you are losing weight, nervous, and feeling unwell. And if these hormones are low, then edema may occur, you gain weight. You are lethargic, sleepy.

Hormone deficiency can lead to depression and poor health

Do people with a sweet tooth often have higher blood sugar? Or is it still a myth?

Natalya Mokrysheva: This is a myth. Do you know why? How did doctors define diabetes in the past? Urine tasted. She is sweet. It is a fact. Why sweet? The simplest explanation – ate a lot of sweets. And the truth is that a person has impaired glucose metabolism or sensitivity to their own insulin. I won’t bore you with the details. Let me just remind you: diabetes is different. Two types. One develops at a young age, in childhood. Must be here at 98% of cases need insulin, because. the pancreas stops producing it. The second type of diabetes develops at an older age, it happens more often. It is about this diabetes that they say that a person eats a lot of sweets. Why? Because more often it develops in people with obesity, overweight. And here, diet, restriction of sugar, carbohydrate foods, creating a balance between consumption and expenditure can prevent its development. Go without insulin.

Speaking of insulin. Domestic meets all requirements? We do not depend on its supplies?

Natalia Mokrysheva: Almost independent. Domestic meets all modern requirements.

Can a person who “sits” on insulin have healthy children?

Natalya Mokrysheva: Of course. You just need to find the right therapy. Previously, such women were told: you cannot have children. And they lost kids. Now they are wearing a pump that delivers insulin as needed and creates a background against which there is no threat of miscarriage. We have a department of endocrinopathy and pregnancy at our center. Everyone can contact us with any endocrine diseases in order to plan together with the doctor how to prepare for pregnancy. Practice shows that an endocrinological center is obligatory in every region. It can be based on a multidisciplinary hospital. After all, the flow of patients with endocrine diseases is huge. They are not getting smaller. Against. Much depends on regional programs and regional leaders.

Cancer alertness is becoming a norm, a practice. Obviously, endocrinological vigilance is also necessary.

Natalya Mokrysheva: Of course. Moreover, oncological diseases are more likely to develop in patients with endocrine disorders. In patients with diabetes, the risk of developing cancer, as well as cardiovascular diseases, is much higher than the average in the population. Patients who have an underactive thyroid gland, iodine deficiency, the risk of developing thyroid cancer is also many times greater. Therefore, a separate unit appeared in our center: oncoendocrinology. To understand, to know the nature of the development of the disease, you need to know what is happening in the body. And, in my opinion, it is endocrinology that provides answers to such questions.

Get to the bottom of it. It requires such meticulousness. ..

Natalya Mokrysheva: She’s a sin. Although it brings a lot of inconvenience. Is this a good trait? Good, but in moderation.

Your doctoral thesis was on the parathyroid glands, which regulate mineral metabolism. Not only is the thyroid gland itself not visible to anyone, but the parathyroid glands also sit behind it. Can’t they be seen at all?

Natalia Mokrysheva: When they are healthy, it is difficult to see them even on ultrasound. How do we work with them? According to blood counts, according to the condition of the bones. But apart from our classic endocrine glands, we are now learning more and more about non-classical ones. There is, for example, such a “non-classical endocrine gland” – this is adipose tissue. Obesity is essentially a hormonal disease. Adipose tissue also produces hormones: leptin and others. Based on them, drugs are already being developed. That is, it is not necessary to say that the endocrine system is only those glands to which we are accustomed. Bone tissue also produces hormones. The entire life system is tied to hormones. We learn to recognize and manage them. We are learning more and more about them.

So they always existed, we just didn’t know about them?

Natalya Mokrysheva: Of course! And now we began to understand the process. That’s the same obesity. Its prevalence is growing as a result of our urbanization. We have a lot of achievements that make life easier. We can go quietly and eat a burger. The development of civilization leads to the fact that new diseases are born. The number of patients with endocrine diseases is increasing. Especially in the last ten years. 5 million Russians suffer from diabetes. These are only registered. Twice as many. who are sick and don’t know about it. Why so much? These are our stresses, the same infections.

Infographics “RG” / Leonid Kuleshov / Natalia Yachmennikova

Key question

You, Natalia Georgievna, initiated a health marathon on obesity. The Obesity Center was opened.

Natalya Mokrysheva: We have connected all regions, various specialists, doctors, patients, cooks, representatives of different religious denominations, trainers in fitness clubs and those who lead a healthy lifestyle. The main thing for everyone to understand is that the balance between what you eat and how active you are physically is important.

Do you personally follow these rules? What do you eat for breakfast, for example?

Natalya Mokrysheva: Hercules. I fill it with boiling water, without milk. I don’t cook. No sugar, no salt. Some berries and nuts. I try to have some vegetable soup for lunch. And, if it turns out, some kind of vegetable snack at 17-18 hours. And if not, then in the evening (I come late) some piece of turkey, for example. I have to limit myself. I have a predisposition. But I don’t like sweets. Although sometimes you want chocolate. But the main thing is to find an opportunity to move. This is what we all lack.

You have been the head of the country’s main endocrinology center for three years. Is the director of such a center a woman’s business?

Natalya Mokrysheva: I think so. The main thing is organization and dedication.

Aren’t you afraid that in the age of digitalization the doctor’s word may disappear?

Natalya Mokrysheva: It’s really dangerous! Therefore, doctors should deal with digitalization, and not just IT and healthcare organizers. So that the doctor does not lose the patient as such, contact with him. Digitalization should be to help doctors and patients, not instead.

Do you like your job?

Natalia Mokrysheva: Very.

Rossiyskaya gazeta – Federal issue: No. 12(8957)

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The hormonal background is a set of hormones existing in the human body, the number and ratio of which can change under the influence of external and internal environmental factors. We also recall that biologically active substances are called hormones, the production of which is carried out by the endocrine glands and partially by organs related to the human endocrine system.

Hormonal background – what is it

The hormonal background, that is, the level of hormones, has a decisive effect on the work of the entire human body, since hormones are involved in all vital processes. The hormonal system and the hormonal background of a person are quite closely connected with the activity of his nervous system.

From a chemical point of view, hormones are proteins, amino acid derivatives, steroids, peptides.

Factors of the internal environment that can cause hormonal imbalance are mainly age-related changes, emotional upheavals, some anomalies in the development of the body and illness. From the outside, such an impact can be produced by ecology, radiation, adverse climatic conditions.

Hormonal imbalance

It is traditionally believed that the age-related restructuring of the human body over the age of 25 and up to 45 years can cause a hormonal imbalance, and in order for the body to remain healthy, it is necessary to provide oneself with properly organized nutrition with a sufficient content of trace elements and vitamins.

Changes in the hormonal background are manifested, in particular, with the change of seasons: in winter, the processes in the body slow down somewhat, and with the advent of spring, activity and the need for energy increase (a hormonal explosion occurs during this period of the year). To a greater extent, such a violation of the hormonal background affects women, although their state of the hormonal system is already unstable.
The main glands – suppliers of hormones, on which the hormonal background primarily depends, are the pituitary gland and the thyroid gland, although in general there are many similar glands. Hormones are directly associated with proteins and are characterized by high biological activity. They are formed in the body in a negligible amount, on the order of tenths of a gram, and act on the body through the blood.

How to restore the hormonal background in a woman

The hormonal background has its effect on the body depending on many conditions: the timeliness and sufficiency of the intake of all vital vitamins, the optimally required concentration of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iodine and other trace elements.

That is why proper and balanced nutrition is so important and necessary in order to ensure the normal functioning of the body and, if possible, prevent hormonal imbalance. After all, some amino acids are not synthesized by our body, their deficiency is replenished only due to the presence in the food that we include in our diet. An indirect method of normalizing the hormonal background can be considered means for breast enlargement based on phytoestrogens.

How to understand that a hormonal failure has occurred in a woman’s body

Endocrine functions in our body are performed by several organs: the thyroid gland, pancreas, adrenal glands, pituitary gland, thymus (thymus) gland and pineal gland, each of which produces various hormones, which determines the overall hormonal background of the human body.

The concentration of certain types of hormones determines both the well-being of a person and the general physical and mental state of his body.

Failure of the hormonal background can be expressed in a decrease in the content of individual hormones or their complex in the blood, which provokes various types of diseases, including severe ones.

In addition, lack of hormones leads to:

• insomnia,
• mood swings,
• skin and hair problems,
• as well as a general deterioration in the appearance of a person.

How to balance hormones

To maintain a normal hormonal background, it is necessary to include immunostimulating foods in the diet. First of all, it is fish, the benefits of which are determined by the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in it, as well as selenium.

Allow to maintain in a normal state the hormonal background of a person eaten cereals containing vitamins of group B.

The use of cereals allows you to stimulate metabolic processes in the body and ensure the normal functioning of the nervous system (both central and peripheral), stabilize the balance of thyroid hormones and the reproductive system.